Q: When are property taxes due in Liberty County?
A: Property taxes for Tax Year 2025 are due by January 31, 2026. There is no split payment option - the full amount must be paid by the deadline to avoid penalties.
Q: What tax credits and exemptions are available, and do they require application?
A: Yes, ALL tax credits and exemptions require application by April 30th of the tax year. Available options include: Homestead Exemption ($100,000 for school taxes), General Homestead ($25,000 from other taxes), Senior/Disability Exemptions (age 65+ or disabled), Veterans Exemptions, and Agricultural/Timber exemptions. Applications must be filed with the Liberty County Appraisal District.
Q: How does the Homestead Exemption work?
A: The Homestead Exemption provides two benefits: it removes $100,000 from your home's value for school tax purposes, and it caps annual assessment increases at 10% for your primary residence. You must apply once when you first qualify, and it continues automatically as long as you own and occupy the home as your primary residence.
Q: When are properties assessed and how can I appeal?
A: Properties are assessed as of January 1st each year. Assessment notices are typically mailed in April-May. You have until May 15th (or 30 days from notice receipt) to file a protest with the Liberty County Appraisal Review Board if you disagree with your assessment.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Penalties begin February 1st at 6% of the tax owed, increasing to 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and 12% in July and thereafter. Interest also accrues at 1% per month.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Liberty County offers online payment options through the tax collector's website. Credit cards, e-checks, and ACH transfers are typically accepted, though convenience fees may apply for credit card payments.
Q: How do special district taxes work?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, emergency medical services, or water/sewer services. The districts you pay depend on your property's location. These rates are set independently by each district and can change annually based on their budget needs.
Q: What triggers a property reassessment during the year?
A: Reassessments can be triggered by ownership changes, new construction completion, major renovations, or appeals that result in value changes. The appraisal district may also conduct periodic reviews of properties that haven't been assessed recently.
